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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Dana Point

Food and fun activities

A day out that balances real food with actual entertainment instead of just killing time between snacks.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
Sunsets Bar image 1
Sunsets Bar image 2
Sunsets Bar image 3
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Bar & grill

Bar and grill with oceanfront deck offers a chill atmosphere and great music. Outdoor seating provides stunning Pacific views ideal for watching sunsets. TVs and pool tables add to a casual, relaxed vibe.

Food offers a step above typical pub fare with fresh ingredients and amazing flavors. Drinks complement the wonderful cuisine well.

A fun and mellow vibe sets the tone here. Enjoy super fun drinks and appetizers that add to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I watched the beautiful sunset from here."

"The food here is amazing, especially the nachos and tacos."

"I found the vibe here to be fun and mellow."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with great drink specials.

2

Four large beers and a huge plate of nachos cost $30 during happy hour.

3

The bar doesn't allow kids, making it an adult-only venue.

02
Blue Dolphin Restaurant & Billiards image 1

Dark interior with over 16 full-size pool tables creates a focused, quiet atmosphere ideal for playing. Miami Vice purple and aqua paint with dark blinds add a distinctive visual style. The place fills up on weekends, attracting an adult crowd seeking a chill billiards experience.

Food here is really good with a focus on noodles and fried rice. Prices stay ridiculously affordable while the quality remains excellent.

Pool tables offer a solid spot for fun. Playing here delivers a relaxed, enjoyable vibe for anyone into billiards.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and ridiculously affordable."

"The food at this bar is really good."

"I found the Blue Dolphin offered great food and wonderful noodles."

Good to know

1

The establishment is for 21 and up, so there are no kids to trip over.

2

The parking is a great free lot.

3

The restrooms are clean.

03
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach image 1

Resort hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and luxurious, spacious rooms with private fire pits. Atmosphere stays relaxing and elegant, supported by impeccable concierge-level service. Amenities include golf courses, pools, a spa, and a private beach, creating a setting where guests feel special and pampered.

Food here offers a fantastic dining experience with dishes that complement the overall luxury vibe. Meals pair well with the setting, making dining a key part of the visit.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's personal attention made it the best stay."

"The food and service here were absolutely outstanding."

"The grounds are beautiful and well cared for."

Good to know

1

The hotel hosts free events like bookmark making and offers free churros by the pool.

2

Expect large groups and outdoor events that may run until 10 pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining, as restaurants can be fully booked.

04
The Rib Joint Roadhouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue spot with a throwback wild west style and oldschool dive bar vibe. Live music from local bands adds to the fun, casual atmosphere where families and locals mingle. Known for exceptional ribs and brisket, it draws a loyal crowd despite a limited menu.

Food features melt-in-your-mouth textures and real, hearty flavors. Meals come fresh and satisfying, perfect for takeout or dining in.

Fun oldschool vibes set the tone with a warm and fun staff. The crowd keeps the atmosphere lively and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the brisket and ribs, was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"I loved the live music and dancing here."

Good to know

1

The kitchen is open until 1am for late-night dining.

2

Open mic night happens every Tuesday, providing a platform for local musicians.

3

Live music is featured every Saturday night, enhancing the dining experience.

05
Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar image 1

Large Italian restaurant offers live piano music that creates a warm, lively atmosphere with intimate low-lit tables and outdoor seating. Noise levels stay moderate, supporting conversation during dinner dates or family gatherings. Martini bar features a fantastic variety of cocktails alongside diverse food options.

Food features excellent quality and a fantastic variety of options. The dining experience pairs well with perfect cocktails and attentive service.

Happy hour and dinner times draw a fun crowd. The lounge has a fun atmosphere where people meet and enjoy themselves.

People are saying

"The baked pasta bolognese and meatballs were outstanding."

"The food here was fantastic and high quality."

"I came for the live piano music and cocktails."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm with great prices on smaller portions.

2

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

3

Covered parking is available nearby for convenience.

06
Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant image 1
Teppanyaki restaurant

Teppanyaki tableside cooking creates a live show with chefs preparing meals in front of diners. The atmosphere feels fun and friendly, suitable for families and dinner parties. Prices are more reasonable than some competitors, and the food includes excellent teppanyaki and sushi options.

Teppanyaki food quality stands out with dishes cooked right in front of diners. The food is consistently fresh and delicious, offering a real Japanese dining experience that kids also enjoy watching.

Chefs deliver fun performances that create a lively atmosphere. The setting feels friendly and engaging, making it a great spot for a fun night out with family or friends.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always seems so fresh."

"The food here is amazing, cooked right in front of you!"

"I thought the Filet Mignon and Scallop combo was the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are easy to make and recommended for dinner.

2

A $5 fee is charged for each person sharing a plate.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly and suitable for families.

07
Hennessey's Tavern image 1

Large bar with indoor and outdoor seating offers a lively atmosphere featuring live music and a dog-friendly patio with fire pit seating. Crowd enjoys sports on TVs and a beachy locals vibe. Indoor space tends to be quieter while outdoor areas buzz with energy.

Irish food and beer selections stand out with solid, reasonably priced dishes. A lively atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable service enhance the dining experience.

Karaoke night and live bands create a fun and lively atmosphere. The crowd is crazy and energetic, making it a great spot for a local neighborhood hangout.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and reasonably priced."

"The pub has a lively atmosphere with lots of TVs showing sports."

"The live bands here are really fun."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with drink specials and $8 appetizers.

2

Karaoke night is on Tuesdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Tuesdays feature a buy one, get one free burger deal.

08
Turk's Dana Warf Restaurant image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Cozy dive bar on the harbor with real anchor chains in booths and vintage photos decorating the walls. Lively, beach-town vibe blends relaxed energy with a fun, social atmosphere. Offers amazing bay views and a full bar with good music and many TVs for sports fans.

Food comes in big portions with excellent quality. Service stays great even when short staffed.

Quaint setting creates a fun atmosphere for small groups. The spot offers a casual vibe that makes hanging out enjoyable and lively.

People are saying

"I had the best fish and chips I've ever had."

"The food here was really good and served warm."

"It's a really fun place to hang out."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can be limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Prices are reasonable considering the waterfront location.

3

The restaurant charges extra for coffee refills; no free refills available.

09
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa image 1

Expansive grounds showcase breathtaking ocean and harbor views with scenic mountain backdrops. Pools separate families and adults, supporting a kid-friendly atmosphere with splash pads and mini golf. The vibe balances serene outdoor spaces with occasional lively energy around pool areas.

A restaurant on the lobby level offers an array of foods and drink options along with a continental breakfast. Staff from front desk to food and beverage are consistently top notch.

People are saying

"The ocean views from the property are truly wonderful."

"The food here is really good."

"The pools and movie nights offer so much fun for families."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is required at $45 per day; no self-parking available.

2

The hotel is undergoing construction, which may disrupt your stay.

3

Expect noise from events like weddings and parties, especially on weekends.

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Dana Point, California

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